If you run a fabrication business in Minneapolis, you may have several different operations to oversee. For example, the modern shop may provide cutting, boring and even precision grinding services along with welding and assembly. Once you find ways to make your shop more efficient, you can become more profitable and competitive, and you may find these tips on efficiency to be very helpful.
Whenever Possible, Buy Supplies in Bulk
Many small shops have tight budgets and it’s important to save as much money as possible with welding supplies. Even though it costs more at the time you can save a lot of money when you buy things like grinding disks and welding sticks in large amounts. For example, if you check suppliers you can buy 50 pounds of 6010 welding stick for a little over $200. However, 10 pounds can cost you more than $25 in Minneapolis and you can save as much as $50 by purchasing the larger amount. This is equivalent to getting two ten pound containers for free and it lowers your fabrication costs.
Tips for Drilling into Metal
Standard portable drills use high speed motors and this is great for wood but many types of metals require low speed and high torque drilling. Using a standard drill for metal can wreak havoc with your drill bits and wear them down far before their time. It’s best to invest in a drill which is specifically designed for metals. The money you save on drill bits may pay for the drill over the course of time.
When drilling into metal, consider using a high grade thread cutting oil. This will make the job easier and is also easier on your bits.
The Benefits of Rafter Squares
Why invest in a triangle shaped carpenter’s tool for metal fabrication? A rafter square is very handy and lets you perform several tasks with one tool. Here is what you can do:
* Make standard measurements
* Mark angles
* Special slot for marking straight lines – this works like a drawing template
* Marking square cuts
* Marking miter cuts
* Protractor function
* Rafter squares come in many different sizes and materials and some are very large while others can easily fit into a pocket. They can be purchased from most Minneapolis suppliers.
Homemade Templates
For some fabrication projects you may have to make your own templates. Instead of using cardboard, why not consider duct tape? Here is what you can do:
* Place the tape onto a flat surface
* Draw your template
* Cut template
* Un-stick and transfer your template to your work piece. You now have a template which will not shift or move as you work.
